Popular participation under Tanzania's decentralized administrative structure: a case study of selection and implementation of irrigation projects in Lushoto district

This paper is an attempt to evaluate the extent to which the structure and institutions created have fostered mass involvement in the planning and implementation of local development project. We will do this through a case study of irrigation project in Lushoto District. The first argument is that the masses know what they want, but are never given the opportunity to decide for themselves. The second argument envisages popular participation as a means of eliciting commitment. Involving people in decision making on local development projects, identifies them with such plans. The exercise also helps to raise their consciousness and increases commitment to such plans. Developments in the Tanzania political system since 1967 culminating in the portly becoming supreme in June 1975 makes use believe that the Tanzanian leadership is committed to the goal of giving power to the people. However the other long term commitments seem in the short run to demand more central control than local participation. While the posting of powerful government appointees in the regions and district has thus strengthened the grip of the centre and may enhance the unity of the country two questions still remain open. One is whether bureaucrats can be relied up on as cadres to advance the cause of socialist development. The second issue that needs consideration is how popular participation can then be facilitated within the framework of national unity.